Applied AI & Data Research Scientist

Jinho Cha, Ph.D.

I develop data-driven decision systems that connect machine learning, statistical inference, stochastic modeling, and optimization.

My research spans predictive–prescriptive analytics, robust decision-making, AI-enabled operations, large-scale empirical modeling, and high-stakes R&D. I focus on turning complex analytical problems into validated, deployable decision frameworks.

Research

Research Focus

A method-centered portfolio built around decision value, uncertainty, and empirical validation.

Machine Learning & Predictive–Prescriptive Analytics

Calibrated predictive models linked directly to downstream operational decisions, including rolling-horizon booking control and economic evaluation.

Statistical Risk & Robust Optimization

Overdispersed count models, Negative Binomial risk, distributional ambiguity, tail protection, sequential control, and model-misspecification-aware decisions.

AI Decision-System Orchestration

Dynamic switching among heterogeneous analytical modules under quality, latency, reliability, and transition-cost tradeoffs.

Mechanism Design & Digital Coordination

Equilibrium analysis, decentralized resource allocation, fairness, convergence, resilience, and smart-contract-mediated coordination.

Simulation & Empirical Decision Analytics

Stochastic simulation, policy timing, ROI analysis, and empirical calibration using national health and financial datasets.

Statistical Foundations

Statistical inference for truncated distributions, count modeling, probability-based decision analysis, and quantitative model development.

Python R pandas NumPy scikit-learn LightGBM PyTorch TensorFlow XGBoost Java Jupyter
Selected Publications

Published Research

Only published work is shown here. Under-review manuscripts are intentionally omitted.

2026

Distributionally robust automation under overdispersed count risk: Ambiguity sets, tail protection, and oracle-relative policy gap

Journal of Industrial and Management Optimization, 22(8), 4039–4087

Distributionally robust sequential control under Negative Binomial count risk, with an empirical illustration using 437 monthly S&P 500 jump counts.

https://doi.org/10.3934/jimo.2026143
2026

Optimal automation under overdispersed discrete risk: thresholds and hysteresis in a Negative Binomial model

Journal of Industrial and Management Optimization, 22(5), 2503–2554

Dynamic Negative Binomial risk modeling with endogenous automation, threshold structure, regime dependence, and hysteresis.

https://doi.org/10.3934/jimo.2026092
2026

Mechanism design and equilibrium analysis of smart contract–mediated resource allocation

Journal of Industrial and Management Optimization, 22(2), 997–1033

Decentralized resource allocation with equilibrium, convergence, fairness–efficiency analysis, and shock-resilience guarantees.

https://doi.org/10.3934/jimo.2026037
2026

Adaptive switching optimization for heterogeneous decision modules under operational uncertainty

Journal of Industrial and Management Optimization, 22(8), 4088–4137

A stochastic dynamic optimization framework for switching among heterogeneous decision modules under quality, latency, reliability, and switching friction.

https://doi.org/10.3934/jimo.2026144
2025

Modeling ROI in chronic disease management: A simulation-based framework integrating patient adherence and policy timing

BMC Public Health, 25, 4270

A 10-year stochastic simulation framework calibrated with MEPS and NHANES data to evaluate intervention timing, adherence, cost, and return on investment.

https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-025-25279-3
Additional published work
Experience

Professional Experience

2025–Present

Faculty, Computer Programming

Computer Science Division, Gwinnett Technical College · Lawrenceville, GA

Conduct AI/data research while teaching programming and computational problem solving.

2021–2025

Senior Researcher

Korea Research Institute for Defense Technology Planning and Advancement (KRIT)

Led data-intensive R&D spanning analytics, simulation, intelligent systems, logistics, and technology decision support.

Concurrent

Lecturer, Artificial Intelligence

Sungkyunkwan University, Graduate School of Advanced Defense

Delivered graduate-level instruction in applied artificial intelligence during KRIT tenure.

2017–2021

Assistant Professor

Department of Mathematics, Korea Military Academy

Conducted quantitative research and taught probability, statistics, linear algebra, optimization, and related mathematical subjects.

Earlier Career

Military Operations Analysis / Operations Research

Republic of Korea Army Headquarters / Joint Chiefs of Staff

Applied simulation, operational data analysis, and quantitative decision methods to large-scale mission-critical planning.

Leadership

Funded R&D Leadership

$1.0M

Project Manager

National R&D program led from problem definition through validation and implementation.

$750K

Co-Principal Investigator

Intelligent coastal-surveillance R&D integrating sensing, analytics, and decision support.

$750K+

Additional Programs

Leadership roles across simulation, training systems, personnel analytics, and technology programs.

Education

Academic Background

  • Ph.D., Industrial Engineering — Clemson University
  • M.S., Industrial Engineering — University of Florida
  • M.S., Industrial Engineering — Texas A&M University
  • B.S., Electronic Engineering — Korea Military Academy
Recognition

Selected Honors

  • Presidential Commendation, Republic of Korea, 2025
  • Ministerial Commendation, Ministry of National Defense, 2023
  • Army Chief of Staff Commendation, 2019
Contact

Research collaboration and industry opportunities

I am interested in applied AI, machine learning, data science, decision intelligence, and research-scientist opportunities where rigorous quantitative methods can create measurable value.